Latching system for automatic securement of a container to a container chassis

ABSTRACT

A latching system for automatic securement of a container to a container chassis is provided. The latching system includes an actuation device disposed on an upper surface of the container chassis, a linkage mechanism disposed below the upper surface, and a connector positioned on a further surface elevated above the upper surface. Placement of the container on the container chassis actuates the actuation device causing the linkage mechanism to move the connector and automatically secure the container to the container chassis.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application incorporates by reference co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled “Front Pin Latching System for Automatic Securement of a Container to a Container Chassis” by John J. Lanigan, Sr. (Docket No. 80443/40700), filed Feb. 19, 2014, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled “Latching System for Automatic Securement of a Container to a Container Chassis” by John J. Lanigan, Sr. (Docket No. 80443/40701), filed Feb. 19, 2014.

REFERENCE REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

SEQUENTIAL LISTING

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

1. Field of the Disclosure

The present application relates generally to latching systems. More particularly, the present application relates to container latches for a container chassis.

2. Description of the Background of the Disclosure

In a conventional container chassis used for transporting a container, the container is secured to the container chassis by two latches spaced apart at each of the two front corners and two latches spaced apart at each of the two rear corners of the container chassis. These latches are manually operated by the driver or other personnel. The rear latches may have a twist lock that is inserted into the bottom of the corner castings of a container. The twist lock may be operated by a lever to move the twist lock between an unlatched position and a latched position. The front latches of a conventional chassis that is 40 to 53 feet in length may have locking pins that extend horizontally into openings of the corner castings of the container. The front of a conventional chassis that is 20 feet in length may utilize a twist lock and manual lever rather than the locking pins.

Such conventional latching devices are manually operated by the chassis driver or other personnel when a container is placed on a chassis. In turn, the conventional latching devices are manually unlocked before the container is removed from the chassis. The driver or other personnel may improperly or incompletely lock or unlock the latching devices, which may cause improper unloading of the container from the chassis or create the potential for shifting of or losing a container during road transport. Thus, there exists a need for an automatic latching system that does not require human intervention.

In the railway transportation industry, a container is typically secured to the four corners of a flatcar using a swing-type latch. Two swing-type latches spaced apart at each of the two front corners and two swing-type latches spaced apart at each of the two rear corners of the flatcar secure the container thereto. Similar to the twist lock latch of a container chassis, the swing-type latches of the flatcar enter openings along the bottom surface of each corner casting of the container. Unlike the twist lock latch, the swing-type latch is continuously biased into position by a spring. As the container is placed on the flatcar, the latch is pushed back against a spring until the latch clears the bottom surface of the corner casting. The latch is designed such that a significant force must be applied against the latch to remove the container from the flatcar. A container weight of approximately 700 lbs may be required to load the container onto the flatcar, and a force of approximately 2,000 lbs, for example, is used to remove the container from the flatcar.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A latching system for automatic securement of a container to a container chassis is provided. The latching system includes an actuation device disposed on an upper surface of the container chassis, a linkage mechanism disposed below the upper surface, and a connector positioned on a further surface elevated above the upper surface. Placement of the container on the container chassis actuates the actuation device causing the linkage mechanism to move the connector and automatically secure the container to the container chassis.

Further, a latching arrangement for automatic securement of a container to a container chassis is provided. The latching arrangement includes first and second latching systems disposed proximate to two corners at a front or rear of the container chassis and an interlock assembly operably coupled to the first and second latching systems. The first and second latching systems automatically secure the container to the container chassis, and the interlock assembly is configured to provide a fail-safe operation such that the first and second latching systems maintain securement of the container to the container chassis.

Finally, a method for automatic securement of a container to a container chassis is provided. The method comprises positioning a connector to extend through a surface of the container chassis, wherein the connector moves between a first position and a second position, positioning an actuation device to extend from the surface, wherein the actuation device is in communication with the connector, and placing a corner casting of the container on top of the surface of the container chassis such that placement of the container on the container chassis actuates the actuation device, wherein the corner casting has an opening to receive the connector. The method also comprises causing the connector to move between the first and second positions in response to actuation of the actuation device such that the container is automatically secured to the container chassis when the container is placed on the container chassis.

Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a rear isometric view of a container chassis including a latching arrangement and a front pin latching arrangement;

FIG. 2 is a front isometric view of the latching arrangement;

FIG. 3 is an exploded rear isometric view of the latching arrangement;

FIG. 4 is a front isometric view of a latching system in an unlatched position;

FIG. 5 is a front isometric view of the latching system of FIG. 4 in a latched position;

FIG. 6 is a front isometric view of a front pin latching arrangement;

FIG. 7 is an exploded rear isometric view of the front pin latching arrangement;

FIG. 8 is a front side isometric view of a front pin latching system in a first position;

FIG. 9 is a front side isometric view of the front pin latching system of FIG. 8 between the first position and a second position;

FIG. 10 is a front side isometric view of the front pin latching system of FIG. 8 in the second position;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged, fragmentary isometric side view of Detail A of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a fragmentary side view of an interlock assembly of the front pin latching arrangement in a first position;

FIG. 13 is a side isometric view of the interlock assembly of the front pin latching arrangement of FIG. 12 in a second position;

FIG. 14 is a rear isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the latching arrangement;

FIG. 15A is a front isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the latching system in an unlatched position;

FIG. 15B is a rear isometric view of the alternative embodiment of the latching system of FIG. 15A in an unlatched position;

FIG. 15C is a partial rear isometric view of the alternative embodiment of the latching system of FIG. 15A in an unlatched position;

FIG. 16 is a front isometric view of the alternative embodiment of the latching system in a partially latched position;

FIG. 17A is a front isometric view of the alternative embodiment of the latching system in a latched position;

FIG. 17B is a rear isometric view of the alternative embodiment of the latching system of FIG. 17A in a latched position;

FIG. 17C is a rear isometric view of the alternative embodiment of the latching system of FIG. 17A in a latched position; and

FIG. 17D is a partial rear isometric view of the alternative embodiment of the latching system in a latched position

FIG. 18A is a rear isometric view of a second alternative embodiment of the latching arrangement in an unlatched position;

FIG. 18B is a rear isometric view of a second alternative embodiment of latching system in an unlatched position;

FIG. 19A is a rear isometric view of the second alternative embodiment of latching arrangement in a latched position;

FIG. 19B is a rear isometric view of the second alternative embodiment of latching system in a latched position; and

FIG. 19C is a rear isometric view of the second alternative embodiment of latching system of FIG. 19B in a latched position;

FIG. 20 is a front isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the latching arrangement;

FIG. 21 is an exploded rear isometric view of the alternative embodiment of the latching arrangement of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a front isometric view of a alternative embodiment of the latching system in an unlatched position;

FIG. 23 is a front isometric view of the alternative embodiment of the latching system in partially unlatched positions;

FIGS. 24 and 25 are front isometric views of the alternative embodiment of the latching system in a latched position;

FIG. 26 is a rear isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the front pin latching arrangement;

FIG. 27 is a front isometric view of the alternative embodiment of the front pin latching arrangement of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is an exploded front isometric view of the alternative embodiment of the front pin latching arrangement of FIG. 26;

FIG. 29 is a front isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the front pin latching system in an unlatched position;

FIGS. 30 and 31 are front isometric views of the alternative embodiment of the front pin latching system in partially unlatched positions;

FIG. 32 is a front isometric view of the alternative embodiment of the front pin latching system in a latched position; and

FIG. 33 is a front isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the interlock assembly of the alternative embodiment of the front pin latching arrangement.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various self-latching container latching systems for use with a container chassis are described herein. As seen, such systems allow for the automatic latching and unlatching of an empty, filled, or partially filled container to and from a container chassis. In the drawings, like reference numerals connote like structures throughout.

Referring to FIG. 1, a container chassis 50 features two of the container latching systems described herein to secure a container 52 thereto. A latching arrangement 100 having connectors 106 a, 106 b is provided on a rear portion 50 a of the chassis 50. Each bottom surface of two rear corner castings 52 a-1, 52 a-2 of the container 52 has a rectangular hole 53 a (shown in FIG. 5) to receive the connectors 106 a, 106 b in the unlatched position. A front pin arrangement 150 having front pins 160 is provided on a front portion 50 b of the container chassis 50. Each front surface of two front corner castings 52 b-1, 52 b-2 of the container 52 has a hole 53 b (shown in FIG. 8) to receive the front pins 160. The latching arrangement 100 and the front pin arrangement 150 are described in greater detail below.

The container chassis 50 shown in the embodiment in FIG. 1 may have a length of 40 to 53 feet, for example. A container chassis having a length of 20 feet (not shown) may utilize the latching arrangement 100 or alternative latching arrangements 200, 250, described below, in the rear and/or front portions of the container chassis.

Latching Arrangement 100

An example latching arrangement 100 for automatic securement of a container 52 to a container chassis 50 is provided in FIG. 2. The latching arrangement 100 includes a first latching system 101 a and a second latching system 101 b disposed proximate to two corners at a front or rear of the container chassis 50 with an interlock assembly 108 operably coupled to the first and second latching systems 101 a, 101 b. When a container 52 is loaded onto the container chassis 50 as shown in FIG. 1, each rear corner casting 52 a depresses first and second actuation devices 102 a, 102 b of respective first and second latching systems 101 a, 101 b, which causes respective first and second connectors 106 a, 106 b to move from an unlatched position as shown in FIG. 4 to a latched position as shown in FIG. 5.

More specifically, placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50 actuates the actuation devices 102 a, 102 b, of the respective first and second latching systems 101 a, 101 b, causing respective linkage mechanisms 104 a, 104 b to move the respective connectors 106 a, 106 b and automatically secure the container 52 to the container chassis 50. In the latched position, the connectors 106 a, 106 b prevent movement of the container 52 apart from the container chassis 50. The interlock assembly 108 is configured to provide a fail-safe operation such that the first and second latching systems 101 a, 101 b maintain securement of the container 52 to the container chassis 50.

In the example shown in FIG. 2, the connectors 106 a, 106 b may be twist locks. Other connector means, such as a bolt, a latch, or a pin, may be utilized. Similarly, the actuation devices 102 a, 102 b in the example embodiment seen in FIG. 2 may be plungers, although other actuation means are envisioned. Examples of possible non-powered mechanical means include but not limited to a plunger lever, a switch, a lever arm, a drive bar, and a button. Automatic, powered mechanical means such as an air solenoid, an electric solenoid, a pneumatic cylinder, or a hydraulic cylinder may also be utilized.

Referring now to FIG. 3, the example latching arrangement 100 is shown in an exploded view. Each first and second latching system 101 a, 101 b of the latching arrangement 100 includes an actuation device 102 a, 102 b, a linkage mechanism 104 a, 104 b, and the connector 106 a, 106 b. Each linkage mechanism 104 a, 104 b, in this example, includes a lever link 110 a, 110 b, a pivot 114 a, 114 b, a fastener 112 a, 112 b, a structure 115 a, 115 b, a fastener 123 a, 123 b, a connector link 122 a, 122 b, an arm 124 a, 124 b, a fastener 125 a, 125 b, a bolt 129 a, 129 b, a spring 116 a, 116 b, a spring housing 117 a, 117 b, and a bracket 118 a-1, 118 a-b. The interlock assembly 108, in this example, includes an actuation device 134, first and second pivots 140 a, 140 b, first and second structures 141 a, 141 b, first and second arms 138 a, 138 b, a spring 133, first and second rods 136 a, 136 b, first and second guides 142, first and second stop bolts 144 a, 144 b, first and second structures 146 a, 146 b, first and second bolts 147 a, 147 b, and first and second bolts 148 a, 148 b. The actuation device 134 is a vertical plate 137 having first and second protrusions 135 a, 135 b extending horizontally therefrom.

As shown in FIG. 4, the actuation device 102 is disposed on an upper surface 54 of the container chassis 50. In particular, the actuation device 102 extends from and through the upper surface 54 of the container chassis 50 when the connector 106 is in the unlatched position. When the connector 106 is in the latched position, the actuation device 102 is level with the upper surface 54 of the container chassis 50. As noted above, the connector 106 is positioned on a further surface 132 elevated above the upper surface 54 of the container chassis 50. The connector 106 includes a head 128 disposed above the further surface 132 on the container chassis 50 and a shaft 127 that extends through the upper surface 54 and further surface 132 of the container chassis 50. The linkage mechanism 104 is disposed below the upper surface 54.

Best seen in FIG. 5, the corner casting 52 a includes an opening 53 a on a bottom surface 56 thereof that receives the connector 106. The further surface 132 has a height that corresponds to the thickness of the bottom surface 56 of the rear corner casting 52 a. The actuation device 102 is dimensioned such that the connector 106 enters the opening 53 a before the actuation device 102 is actuated.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the linkage mechanism 104 translates the vertical movement of the actuation device 102 into rotational movement of the connector 106 when the actuation device 102 is actuated by placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50. In the example shown in the figures, the connector 106 comprises a twist lock that rotates approximately 90 degrees upon actuation of the actuation device 102.

More specifically, a first end 110-1 of the lever link 110 is coupled to the pivot 114 that is mounted on the structure 115 welded to the underside of an upper surface 54 of the container chassis 50. A second end 110-2 of the lever link 110 opposite the first end 110-1 is coupled to a first end 122-1 of the connector link 122 by means of the fastener 123 to allow for rotational movement.

Similarly, the fastener 125 connects a second end 122-2 of the connector link 122 to the arm 124. The arm 124 is fixed to a cylindrical shaft 126 and extends horizontally therefrom. The arm 124 may be welded to or formed in the same mold as the shaft 126. Referring back to FIG. 3, the shaft 126 is coupled to the shaft 127 of the connector 106 via bolt 129 such that the shafts 126, 127 have a common axis.

Shown best in FIG. 4, the spring 116 of the linkage mechanism 104 is biased against movement of the lever link 110. The spring 116 is disposed within the spring housing 117 between the second end 110-2 of the lever link 110 and an outer surface 118 of the container chassis 50. The bracket 118 a may be mounted on the outer surface 118 to receive the spring 116.

In the unlatched position shown in FIG. 4, the actuation device 102 is disposed on an upper surface 54 of the container chassis 50, and the spring 116 biases the lever link 110 away from the outer surface 118 of the container chassis 50. The actuation device 102 engages with the level link 110 by means of the fastener 112. Specifically, depression of the actuation device 102 causes the lever link 110 to rotate about the pivot 114 toward the outer surface 118 of the container chassis 50 against the bias of the spring 116, thereby causing movement of the connector 106 from an unlatched position shown in FIG. 4 into the latched position shown in FIG. 5.

Referring again to FIG. 2, the interlock assembly 108 may provide a fail-safe operation such that the first and second latching systems 101 a, 101 b maintain securement of the container 52 to the container chassis 50. In the event of an uneven lift caused by, for example, rounding a corner during transport or improper removal of a container, the interlock assembly 108 acts like a spring-loaded latch to maintain the latching systems 101 a, 101 b in the latched position. Placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50 actuates the actuation device 134, causing the interlock mechanisms 132 to move each of the first and second rods 136 a, 136 b towards the respective first and second latching systems 101 a, 101 b. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the actuation device 134 of the interlock assembly 108 is spaced apart from the actuation devices 102 a, 102 b of the respective first and second latching systems 101 a, 101 b. Rods 136 a, 136 b may be a flat bar or plate, a circular rod, a rod having a square or other geometrical cross section.

FIG. 2 shows first and second latching systems 101 a, 101 b disposed proximate to two corners at a front or rear of the container chassis 50. The actuation device 134 is disposed on the upper surface 54 of the container chassis 50, and the interlock mechanism 132 is disposed below the upper surface 54 of the container chassis 50. The first and second rods 136 a, 136 b extend from the interlock mechanism 132 to the respective first and second latching systems 101 a, 101 b. The first and second rods 136 a, 136 b rest in a first position when the actuation device 134 is not actuated, and the first and second rods 136 a, 136 b rest in a second position when the actuation device 134 is actuated.

The interlock mechanism 132 translates the vertical movement of the actuation device 134 into horizontal movement of the first and second rods 136 a, 136 b when the actuation device 134 is actuated by placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50. The interlock mechanism 132 includes the spring 133, the first and second ainis 138 a, 138 b, and the first and second pivots 140 a, 140 b. The spring 133 disposed between the bottom surface 59 of the container chassis 50 and the actuation device 134 is biased against movement of the actuation device 134.

The first and second arms 138 a, 138 b connect the plate 137 of the actuation device 134 to first ends 136 a-1, 136 b-1 of respective first and second rods 136 a, 136 b as shown in FIG. 2. The arms 138 a, 138 b rotate about respective first and second pivots 140 a, 140 b secured to respective first and second structures 141 a, 141 b mounted to the underside of the upper surface 54 of the container chassis 50. Further, the arms 138 a, 138 b are operatively coupled to the actuation device 134 such that downward movement of the actuation device 134 causes each arm 138 a, 138 b to rotate about the respective pivot 140 a, 140 b. The arms 138 a, 138 b also are connected to the respective first ends 136 a-1, 136 b-1 of the respective first and second rods 136 a, 136 b, and movement of the arms 138 a, 138 b about the pivots 140 a, 140 b results in outward movement of the rods 136 a,136 b toward the respective latching system 101 a, 101 b.

In particular, the plate 137 of the actuation device 134 includes first and second protrusions 135 a, 135 b that extend horizontally therefrom and move vertically with the actuation device 134. In one example embodiment, first and second protrusions 135 a, 135 b are pins driven horizontally through the plate 137. First and second notches 139 a, 139 b along inner surfaces of the arms 138 a, 138 b receive the respective first and second protrusions 135 a, 135 b. The first and second protrusions 135 a, 135 b are in communication with the first and second arms 138 a, 138 b, and more specifically, the first and second notches 139 a, 139 b, so as to enable the vertical movement of the actuation device 134 to rotate the first and second arms 138 a, 138 b about respective first and second pivots 140 a, 140 b.

Shown best in FIGS. 4 and 5, the second end 136-2 of the rod 136 of the interlock assembly 108 interacts with the latching system 101. The guide 142 having a slot 143 is coupled to a second end 136-2 of the rod 136. The slot 143 receives the bolt 147 that is coupled to the structure 146 mounted on or otherwise secured to the container chassis 50. As the latching system 101 moves between the unlatched (see FIG. 4) and latched positions (see FIG. 5), the bolt 147 moves along the slot 143.

The stop bolt 144 also moves with the second end 136-2 of the rod 136 between the unlatched (see FIG. 4) and latched positions (see FIG. 5). A plate 149 secured to the lever link 110 is positioned adjacent the stop bolt 144. The rod 126 and the lever link 110 move consistently and simultaneously between the latched and unlatched positions such that a gap 145 is maintained between the stop bolt 144 of the rod 136 and the plate 149 of the lever link 110 during normal use. In the event that the linkage mechanism 104 is unable to maintain the lever link 110 in the latched position, the gap 145 is eliminated as the stop bolt 144 resists movement of the lever link 110 such that the lever link 110 is held in place against the spring 116, and the connector 106 remains in the latched position.

The second bolt 148 fastened to the structure 146 is positioned such that the second end 110-2 of the lever link 110 swings toward and away from the second bolt 148 when the latching system 101 moves between the unlatched (see FIG. 4) and latched positions (see FIG. 5). This second bolt 148 provides a surface against which the lever link 110 rests when the latching system 101 is in the unlatched position.

Operation of the latching arrangement 100 will now be described. Referring again to FIG. 4, the latching system 101 is shown in the unlatched position. The actuation device 102 extends from the upper surface 54 of the chassis 50. When a container 52 is placed upon the container chassis 50 as shown in FIG. 5, the actuation device 102 is depressed along path A. Depression of the actuation device 102 causes the second end 110-2 of the lever link 110 to move along path B, which in turn causes the second end 122-2 of the connector link 122 to move along path C. The movement of the second end 122-2 of the connector link 122 rotates the arm 124 and connector 106 along path D into the latched position.

When the container 52 is removed from the chassis 50, the spring 116 forces the lever link 110 toward the center of the chassis 50. This movement causes the connector link 122 and the arm 124 to shift away from the outer surface 118 of the container chassis 50, which causes the connector 106 to rotate into the unlatched position.

Such placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50 also causes the interlock assembly 108 to move from a first position (partially shown in FIG. 4) to a second position (partially shown in FIG. 5). Depression of the actuation device 134 causes each first and second arm 138 a, 138 b to move respective first and second rod 136 a, 136 b toward the respective first and second latching system 101 a, 101 b. When the container 52 is removed from the chassis 50, the spring 133 causes the actuation device 134 to rise, thereby causing the rods 136 a, 136 b to move horizontally away from the outer surface 118 of the container chassis 50.

Front Pin Latching Arrangement 150

Referring to FIG. 6, an example front pin latching arrangement 150 for automatic securement of a container 52 to a container chassis 50 is shown. The front pin latching arrangement 150 includes a first front pin latching system 151 a and a second front pin latching system 151 b disposed proximate to two front corners of a container chassis 50. Each front pin latching system 151 a, 151 b, in this example, includes a shelf 154 (shown in FIG. 8) and a pin 160 that move between first, unlatched positions (shown in FIG. 8) and second, latched positions (shown in FIG. 10). When a container 52 is loaded onto the container chassis 50 as shown in FIG. 1, the shelf 154 receives a corner casting 52 b of the container 52 and moves downwardly such that the pin 160 extends outwardly into a corner casting opening 53 b (shown in FIG. 8) of the corner casting 52 b to secure the container 52 to the container chassis 50.

More specifically, placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50 moves the shelf 154, causing the linkage mechanism 162 to move the pin 160 such that the pin 160 automatically secures the container 52 to the container chassis 50. The pin 160 restricts movement between the corner casting 52 b of the container 52 and the container chassis 50 such that each front pin latching system 151 automatically secures the container 52 to the container chassis 50.

In this example, the front pin latching arrangement 150 also includes an interlock assembly 152 operably coupled to the first and second front pin latching systems 151 a, 151 b. The interlock assembly 152 is configured to provide a fail-safe operation to such that the first and second front pin latching systems 151 a, 151 b maintain securement of the container 52 to the container chassis 50.

In the example shown in FIG. 6, the front pin latching systems 151 a, 151 b utilize the pins 160 a, 160 b to secure the container 52 to the container chassis 50. Other connector means such as a screw or a latch may be utilized. Similarly, the example container chassis 50 of FIG. 6 comprises a first insert 158 a and a second insert 158 b into which each of the respective first and second front pin latching systems 151 a, 151 b are mounted. A person of skill in the art could mount the front pin latching systems 151 a, 151 b directly to the container chassis 50 without the need for an insert 158 or other separate component.

Referring now to FIG. 7, the front pin latching arrangement 150 is shown in an exploded view. Each of the first and second front pin latching systems 151 a, 151 b is mounted to a respective first and second insert 158 a, 158 b, and each insert 158 a, 158 b is dimensioned to fit within the two opposite corners of a container chassis 50. The insert 158 a, 158 b may be welded or otherwise secured within the container chassis 50. The front pin latching system 151 a, 151 b, in this example embodiment, includes the shelf 154 a, 154 b, the pin 160 a, 160 b, and the linkage mechanism 162 a, 162 b. As shown in the example of FIG. 7, the linkage mechanism 162 a, 162 b includes a link 166 a, 166 b, a spring 172 a, 172 b, a plate 174 a, 174 b, and a spring housing 176 a, 176 b. The interlock assembly 152, in this example embodiment, includes a rod 182, a first tab 184 a adjacent the first front pin latching system 151 a, and a second tab 184 b adjacent the second front pin latching system 151 b.

As shown in FIG. 8, the shelf 154 is configured to move vertically on the outer surface 156 of the insert 158. The shelf 154 and the insert 158 have adjacent openings, 155, 159, respectively. The pin 160 is positioned within the container chassis 50 relative to the shelf 154, and is configured to move horizontally through the adjacent openings, 155, 159. The pin 160 is also configured to move vertically with the shelf 154 during placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50. Thus, the pin 160 enters the corner casting opening 53 b as the shelf 154 moves downward. The linkage mechanism 162 is disposed on an inner surface 157 of the insert 158.

Referring to FIG. 8, the shelf 154 rests in the first position when the container 52 is not loaded onto the container chassis 50. The shelf 154 rests in a second position when the container 52 is loaded on the container chassis 50 as shown in FIG. 10. Movement of the shelf 154 from the first position to the second position causes the pin 160 to extend outwardly from the container chassis 50. Best illustrated in FIG. 9, the pin 160 moves both vertically and horizontally between the first and second positions.

In this embodiment, the linkage mechanism 162 is operably coupled to the shelf 154 and the pin 160 so as to translate the vertical movement of the shelf 154 into horizontal movement of the pin 160 during placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50. The plate 174 of the linkage mechanism 162 disposed on the inner surface 157 of the insert 158 is configured to move vertically with the shelf 154. A bore 173 on the plate 174 maintains the vertical position of the pin 160, as the pin 160 moves vertically with the plate 174. The pin 160 also moves horizontally through the bore 173 between the first and second positions. Horizontal movement of the pin 160 is effected by the link 166 of the linkage mechanism 162 during movement of the shelf 154.

Most clearly shown in FIG. 11, the link 166 of the linkage mechanism 162 rotates about a pivot 168 mounted, welded, or otherwise secured to a portion 170 of the insert 158. An opposite end of the link 166 is operably coupled to the pin 160. The link 166 is dimensioned and positioned such that downward movement of the shelf 154 causes the link 166 to rotate about the pivot 168 and move the pin 160 horizontally through the adjacent openings 155, 159 of the shelf 154 and the insert 158, respectively.

Seen best in FIG. 8, the linkage mechanism 162 also includes the spring 172 biased against movement of the shelf 154. The spring 172 biases the shelf 154 into the first position as shown in FIG. 8. The spring housing 176 is secured to the plate 174. The spring 172 is compressed between the cover 178 (see FIG. 9) of the spring housing 176 and a bottom surface 59 of the container chassis 50.

Referring back to FIG. 7, the interlock assembly 152 may provide a fail-safe operation such that the first and second front pin latching systems 151 a, 151 b maintain securement of the container 52 to the container chassis 50. The rod 182 extends between the first and second front pin latching systems 151 a, 151 b. The first and second tabs 184 a, 184 b are coupled to the rod 182, and are disposed proximate to the respective the respective first and second front pin latching systems 151 a, 151 b. The tabs 184 a, 184 b may be bolted, pinned, or secured to the rod 182 by any suitable method. Additionally, the rod 182 may be a circular rod, a flat bar or plate, or a rod having a square or other geometrical cross section.

As seen in FIG. 12, the tab 184 has a cam surface 186 adjacent the front pin latching system 151 such that the cam surface 186 follows movement of the front pin latching system 151 during placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50. The tab 184 is disposed in a first position before placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50. FIG. 13 shows the tab 184 disposed in a second position after placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50. The rod 182 and tabs 184 a, 184 b rotate between the first and second positions upon movement of the first and second shelves 154 a, 154 b of the respective first and second front pin latching systems 151 a, 151 b.

More specifically, a hook portion 188 of the tab 184 is disposed against the plate 174 of the front pin latching system 151 in the first position shown in FIG. 12. As the plate 174 moves downward upon placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50, the plate 174 contacts the cam surface 186 of the tab 184, causing the tab 184, and the rod 182 connected thereto, to rotate. In the second position shown in FIG. 13, the hook portion 188 of the tab 184 receives an upper edge 175 of the plate 174. The first and second tabs 184 a, 184 b in the second position provide a fail-safe to maintain the position of the respective first and second pins 160 a, 160 b of the respective first and second front pin latching systems 151 a, 151 b such that the container 52 remains secured to the container chassis 50.

Operation of the front pin arrangement 150 will now be described. In reference to FIG. 8, the shelf 154 of each front pin latching system 151 rests in the first position prior to placement of a container 52 on the container chassis 50. The pin 160 remains disposed within the insert 158. As the corner casting 52 b of the container 52 is placed on the shelf 154, the shelf 154 moves downwardly into the second position. Such movement causes the link 166 to force the pin 160 outwardly from the insert 158, as seen in FIG. 9. Once the shelf 154 reaches the lowermost position shown in FIG. 10, the pin 160 fully extends from the shelf 154 into the opening 53 b of the corner casting 52 b.

Downward movement of the shelves 154 a, 154 b of the respective front pin latching systems 151 a, 151 b also causes the interlock assembly 152 to move between the first and second positions. As the plate 174 of the front pin latching system 151 moves downwardly upon placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50, the plate 174 contacts the cam surface 186 of the tab 184 such that the tab 184 rotates. The hook portion 188 of the tab 184 captures the upper edge 175 of the plate 174 to prevent the plate 174, and the front pin latching system 151 connected thereto, from moving upwards.

When the container 52 is removed from the container chassis 50, the spring 172 of each front pin latching system 151 biases the plate 174 and the shelf 154 upwards, which causes the link 166 to rotate about the pivot 168. Rotation of the link 166 causes the pin 160 to move horizontally into the insert 158. Upward movement of the plate 174 also causes the cam surface 186 of the tab 184 to rotate away from the plate 174, thereby enabling the spring 172 to bias the upper edge 175 of the plate 174 against hook portion 188 of the tab 184.

Latching Arrangement 200

Referring to FIG. 14, an alternative embodiment latching arrangement 200 is provided. In this embodiment, the latching arrangement 200 includes a first latching system 201 a and a second latching system 201 b spaced apart at each of the two rear corners of the container chassis 50. An interlock assembly 202 is positioned between the first and second latching systems 201 a, 201 b. When a container 52 is loaded onto the container chassis 50 (see FIG. 17B), each rear corner casting 52 a depresses an actuation device 204 (see FIG. 15A) of each latching system 201. Depression of the actuation device 204 causes a latch 206 to move between an unlatched position of FIG. 15A to a latched position of FIG. 17A such that the container 52 is secured to the container chassis 50. The interlock assembly 202 seen in FIG. 14 provides a fail-safe operation to ensure that the first and second latches 206 a, 206 b of the respective first and second latching systems 201 a, 201 b remain in the latched position.

As shown in FIG. 15A, each latching system 201 includes the actuation device 204, the latch 206 (see FIG. 15C) positioned within a latch housing 207, and a linkage mechanism 208. The linkage mechanism 208, in this example, includes a structure 210, a link 212 that rotates about a link pivot 214, a spring 216, and a plate 218. In this example embodiment, the interlock assembly 202 includes a rod 220, a first tab 222 a adjacent the first latching system 201 a, a second tab 222 b adjacent the second latching system 201 b. FIG. 15B shows the latching system 201 from another perspective.

In this example embodiment, the actuation device 204 is an upper surface 224 of a box 226 that receives the structure 210 of the linkage mechanism 208. The structure 210 extends through a surface 54 of the container chassis 50. Referring to FIG. 15C, an inner face 230 of the box 226 has an inverted U-shape that extends downwardly on either side of the link 212 of the linkage mechanism 208. Shown in FIG. 15A, the plate 218 is mounted or otherwise secured to a bottom surface 59 of the container chassis 50. A guide slot 232 within the plate 218 receives an extension 234 of the structure 210 to provide further control over movement of the structure 210 between the latched and unlatched positions. Finally, the structure 210 also includes a bottom surface 228 parallel to the upper surface 224 of the box 226 against which the spring 216 is biased.

The latch housing 207 is disposed on top of the box 226 of the structure 210. The latch 206 extends through the box 226 and rotates about a latch pivot 236 mounted within the latch housing 207. Downward movement of the structure 210 due to placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50 results in downward movement of the latch housing 207, the actuation device 204, and the structure 210.

The linkage mechanism 208 translates the vertical movement of the actuation device 204 into rotational movement of the latch 206 about the latch pivot 236. The link 212 of the linkage mechanism 208 is operably coupled to the link pivot 214 secured to the container chassis 50. At an opposite end, the link 212 is operably coupled to the latch 206. The inner face 230 of the box 226 straddles the link 212 at a midpoint of the link 212 as seen best in FIG. 17B. The spring 216 biases the actuation device 204 against placement of the container 52 onto the container chassis 50. Actuation of the actuation device 204 (i.e., downward movement of the box 226) causes the link 212 to rotate about the link pivot 214, which causes the latch 206 to rotate about the latch pivot 236 into the latched position (see FIG. 17A).

As seen in FIGS. 15A, 15B, and 15C, the actuation device 204 is disposed above the surface 54 of the container chassis 50 in the unlatched position.

FIG. 16 illustrates the latching system 201 moving between the latched and unlatched positions. The extension 234 of the structure 210 is at a midpoint within the guide slot 232 of the plate 218, and the latch 206 has extended partially from the latch housing 207.

Referring to FIG. 17A, the latching system 201 is shown in the latched position. The actuation device 204 is level with the surface 54 of the container chassis 50. The latch 206 extends fully from the latch housing 207.

Referring again to FIG. 14, the interlock assembly 202 operates similarly to the interlock assembly 152 of the front pin latching arrangement 150. The rod 220 of the interlock assembly 202 has first and second tabs 222 a, 222 b positioned adjacent respective first and second latching systems 201 a, 201 b. Upon movement of the first and second actuation devices 204 a, 204 b of the respective first and second latching systems 201 a, 201 b, the rod 220 and tabs 222 a, 222 b rotate between an unlatched position shown in FIG. 15C and a latched position shown in FIG. 17A. In the latched position, the first and second tabs 222 a, 222 b maintain the position of the extensions 234 a, 234 b, and the other components of the latching systems 201 a, 201 b connected thereto, such that the latches 206 a, 206 b are held in the latched position and the container 52 remains secured to the container chassis 50. The rod 220 may be a flat bar or plate, a circular rod, or a rod having a square or other geometrical cross section.

More specifically, a hook portion 221 of the tab 222 is disposed against the extension 234 of the structure 210 of each latching system 201 a, 201 b in the unlatched position shown in FIG. 15C. As the structure 210 moves downward upon placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50, the extension 210 pushes a lower surface 223 of the tab 222, causing the tab 222 to rotate. In the latched position shown in FIG. 17A, the hook portion 221 of the tab 222 receives an upper edge 235 of the extension 234. In addition, the interlock rod 220 extends through each tab 222 a, 222 b. The rod 222 and the tabs 222 a, 222 b may be welded together or made from the same mold Tabs are bolted to the rod.

Operation of the latching arrangement 200 will now be described. FIGS. 15A, 15B, and 15C show the latching system 201 in the unlatched position. The actuation device 204, in this example, extends upwards from the surface of the container chassis, and the latch 206 remains within the latch housing 207. The tab hook 221 of the tab 222 rests against the extension 234. In FIG. 16, the latching system 201 is shown in a partial latched position. The latch housing 207 enters the hole 53 a (shown in FIG. 17B) of the corner casting 52 a while a bottom surface of the corner casting 52 a depresses the actuation device 204. This depression rotates the link 212 of the linkage mechanism 208 about the link pivot 214, which causes the latch 206 to rotate about the latch pivot 236 and extend from the latch housing 207. This depression also causes the extension 234 of the structure 210 of the latching system 201 to move downward and contact the lower surface 223 of the tab 222 such that the tab 222 and the rod 220 connected thereto rotates. Referring to the latched position shown in FIGS. 17A-D, the latch 206 is fully extended from the latch housing 207 and the actuation device 204 is fully depressed. The tab hook 221 of the tab 222 captures the upper edge 235 of the extension 234 to prevent the extension 234, and the latching system 201 connected thereto, from moving upwards.

Latching Arrangement 250

Referring to FIG. 18A, another alternative embodiment latching arrangement 250 is provided. The latching arrangement 250, in this example embodiment, includes a first latching system 251 a and second latching system 251 b spaced apart at each of the two rear corners of the container chassis 50, a bar 252 extending between the first and second latching systems 251 a, 251 b, and an interlock assembly 254 positioned below the rod. When a container 52 is loaded onto the container chassis 50 (see FIG. 19C), the container 52 depresses a first actuation device 256 a and a second actuation device 256 b of the respective first and second latching systems 251 a, 251 b. Depression of the actuation devices 256 a, 256 b causes first and second latches 258 a, 258 b to move between an unlatched position of FIG. 18A to a latched position of FIG. 19A such that the container 52 is secured to the container chassis 50. In this embodiment, the interlock assembly 254 provides a fail-safe operation to ensure that the first and second latches 258 a, 258 b of the respective first and second latching systems 251 a, 251 b remain in the latched position.

In the example shown in FIG. 18A, the bar 252 comprises a flat bar or plate, although other embodiments may utilize a rod having a curved, square, or any geometrical cross section.

Referring to FIG. 18A, each latching system 251 a, 251 b includes the actuation device 256, a linkage mechanism 260, and the latch 258 (see FIG. 19A) disposed on a latch pivot (not shown) within a latch housing 262. The linkage mechanism 260, in this example, includes a link 264, a spring 266, and a structure 268. The interlock assembly 254, in this example, includes first and second arms 270 a, 270 b, first and second plates 272 a, 272 b, first and second interlock rods 274 a, 274 b, and first and second guides 276 a, 276 b.

The first and second actuation devices 256 a, 256 b are positioned along a rear portion of the container chassis 50, spaced apart from one another as well as from the respective first and second latching systems 251 a, 251 b. In the example embodiment shown in FIG. 18A, the first and second actuation devices 256 a, 256 b are located at the respective first and second junctures 58 a, 58 b of a rear portion 60 of the container chassis 50 and respective first and second main beams 62 a, 62 b extending perpendicular from the rear portion 60.

As seen in FIG. 18B, the linkage mechanism 260 of the latching system 251 translates the vertical movement of the actuation device 256 into rotational movement of the latch 258 about the latch pivot. The first and second actuation devices 256 a, 256 b extend upward from the bar 252 such that downward movement of the actuation devices 256 a, 256 b causes downward movement of the bar 252. The first and second links 264 a, 264 b of the respective first and second linkage mechanisms 260 a, 260 b are operably coupled to respective first and second structures 268 a, 268 b at opposite ends of the bar 252. The first and second links 264 a, 264 b are also operably coupled to the respective first and second latches 258 a, 258 b of the respective first and second latching systems 251 a, 251 b.

The spring 266 of each latching system 251 a, 251 b disposed between the bar 252 and a bottom surface 56 of the container chassis 50 biases the actuation device 256 against placement of the container 52 onto the container chassis 50. Actuation of each actuation device 256 (i.e., downward movement of the bar 252) causes the latch 258 to rotate about the latch pivot into the latched position (see FIG. 19A). The bar 252 extends through first and second rod guides 280 a, 280 b adjacent respective first and second latching systems 251 a, 251 b to provide control over movement of the bar 252.

FIG. 19A illustrates the latching arrangement 251 in the latched position. The actuation device 256 is depressed relative to the surface 54 of the container chassis 50, which causes the latch 258 to extend fully from the latch housing 262. The actuation device 256 is depressed by movement of the bottom of the container 52 or a cross brace between corner castings 52 a-1, 52 a-2. Operation of the latching system 251 is described in greater detail below.

Referring again to FIG. 18A, the interlock assembly 254 interacts with the first and second latching systems 251 a, 251 b. The first and second interlock rods 274 a, 274 b are positioned adjacent one another and move horizontally in opposite directions through the first and second guides 276 a, 276 b. At a first end of the first and second interlock rods 274 a, 274 b, respective first and second arms 270 a, 270 b connect the respective first and second interlock rods 274 a, 274 b to the bar 252. At a second end of the first and second interlock rods 274 a, 274 b, the first and second plates 272 a, 272 b are secured thereto adjacent respective first and second latching systems 251 a, 251 b. Each plate 272 a, 272 b has a notch 273 sized to receive one of first and second protrusions 278 a, 278 b that extend horizontally from the bar 252. Downward movement of the bar 252 causes the first and second arms 270 a, 270 b to move the respective first and second interlock rods 274 a, 274 b toward the respective first and second latching systems 251 a, 251 b. The first and second notches 273 a, 273 b of the respective first and second plates 272 a, 272 b receive respective first and second protrusions 278 a, 278 b of the bar 252 in the latched position as shown in FIG. 19A. The interaction of the plates 272 a, 272 b with the protrusions 278 a, 278 b restricts movement of the bar 252 in any direction, thereby ensuring securement of the container 52 to the container chassis 52.

Operation of the latch system 251 will now be described. FIGS. 18A and 18B show the latching system 251 in the unlatched position. In this arrangement, the actuation devices 256 extend upward and the latches 258 remain within the latch housing 262. The spring 266 forces the bar 252 upwards. In the latched position of FIG. 19C, the latch housings 262 enter the holes 53 a of the corner casting 52 a while the bottom surface 56 of the rear portion 52 a of the container 52 depresses the actuation devices 252. Depression of the actuation devices 256 causes downward movement of the bar 252, actuating the linkage mechanisms 260 to extend the latches 258 from the latch housings 262. This depression also causes the arm 270 to move downward and force each interlock rod 274 outward toward the latching systems 251. Referring to the latched position shown in FIGS. 19A-C, the latches 258 fully extend from the latch housings 262 and the actuation devices 256 are fully depressed. The engagement of the plates 272 with the protrusions 278 prevent the bar 252 from moving upwards.

Latching Arrangement 300

Referring to FIG. 20, an alternative embodiment latching arrangement 300 is provided. Similar to the latching arrangement 100, the latching arrangement 300 includes a first latching system 301 a and a second latching system 301 b spaced apart at each of the two rear corners of the container chassis 50. An interlock assembly 308 is positioned between the first and second latching systems 301 a, 301 b. When a container 52 is loaded onto the container chassis 50 (see FIGS. 1 and 17B), each rear corner casting 52 a depresses an actuation device 302 of each latching system 301. Depression of the actuation devices 302 a, 302 b causes respective first and second connectors 306 a, 306 b to move from an unlatched position as shown in FIG. 22 to a latched position as shown in FIG. 24. Similar to the connector 106 of the latching system 101, the connector 306 of the latching system 301 is disposed atop the further surface 132 above the upper surface 54 of the container chassis 50.

More specifically, placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50 actuates the actuation devices 302 a, 302 b of the respective first and second latching systems 301 a, 301 b, causing respective linkage mechanisms 304 a, 304 b to move the respective connectors 306 a, 306 b and automatically secure the container 52 to the container chassis 50. In the latched position, the connectors 306 a, 306 b prevent movement of the container 52 apart from the container chassis 50. The interlock assembly 308 is configured to provide a fail-safe operation such that the first and second latching systems 301 a, 301 b maintain securement of the container 52 to the container chassis 50.

In the example shown in FIG. 20, the connectors 306 a, 306 b may be twist locks. Other connector means, such as a bolt, a latch, or a pin, may be utilized. Similarly, the actuation devices 302 a, 302 b in the example embodiment may be plungers, although other actuation means are envisioned. Examples of possible non-powered mechanical means include but not limited to a plunger lever, a switch, a lever arm, a drive bar, and a button. Automatic, powered mechanical means such as an air solenoid, an electric solenoid, a pneumatic cylinder, or a hydraulic cylinder may also be utilized.

Referring now to FIG. 21, the example latching arrangement 300 is shown in an exploded view. Each first and second latching system 301 a, 301 b of the latching arrangement 300 includes the actuation device 302 a, 302 b, a linkage mechanism 304 a, 304 b, and the connector 306 a, 306 b. Each linkage mechanism 304 a, 304 b, in this example, includes a lever link 310 a, 310 b that rotates about a pivot 314 a, 314 b, a plate 315 a, 315 b, a spring 316 a, 316 b, fasteners 317 a, 317 b, a structure 318 a, 318 a, a connector link 322 a, 322 b, a fastener 323 a, 323 b, an arm 324 a, 324 b connected to a bracket 338 a, 338 b, a fastener 325 a, 325 b, a casing 326 a, 326 b, a bolt 329 a, 329 b, and a fastener 339 a, 339 b. The interlock assembly 308, in this example, includes a bar 334, a bracket 336 a, 336 b having a C-shaped portion 337 a, 337 b extending therefrom, and a bolt 312. The plate 315 a, 315 b includes an upper edge 348 a, 348 b that engages with the bracket 336 a, 336 b as described in greater detail below.

The latching device 301 performs the same function as the latching device 101, but includes differently shaped components. Such variation allows for different ways of mounting into the container chassis 50, if desired. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 22, for example, the structure 318 which provides the pivot 314 is mounted onto the bottom surface 59 of the container chassis 50 by bolts, fasteners, or other suitable means. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 4, the pivot 114 about which the lever link 110 of the latching system 101 rotates is provided by the structure 115 that is welded or otherwise secured to the underside of the upper surface 54 of the container chassis 50.

The components of the latching device 301 also allow for different manufacturing methods specific to each component. For example, the bracket 338 includes two opposing side portions 344 having aligned through-holes that receive the casing 326. Fasteners 339 extend through the through-holes to securely fasten the bracket 338 to the casing 326. Further, the arm 324 extends horizontally from the bottom of the bracket 338 such that rotation of the arm 324 translates to rotation of the connector 306.

Referring to FIG. 22, movement of the actuation device 302 causes the lever link 310 to rotate about the pivot 314 mounted on the structure 318. Specifically, the lever link 310 includes a pin 342 that extends horizontally therefrom and through an opening 346 on the plate 315, which is secured to the actuation device 302. The rotational movement of the lever link 310 causes horizontal movement of the connector link 322 which causes rotational movement of the arm 324 and the bracket 338, and the casing 326 and the connector 306 secured thereto, about a central axis thereof.

FIG. 23 shows movement of the actuation device 302, the linkage mechanism 304, and the connector 306 as the actuation device 302 is moved partially downward. Downward movement of the actuation device 302 causes downward movement of the structure 315 and rotational movement of level link 310 about the pivot 314. The spring 316 is disposed between an extension 313 in the structure 318 and an extension 311 of the lever link 310 such that the spring 316 is biased against movement of the lever link 310. FIG. 24 shows the latching device 301 in the latched position.

As shown in FIG. 25, the latching device 300 may include a limit switch 340 that detects whether the latching system 301 is latched or unlatched, and communicates such status to the driver through an indicator light (not shown). During operation, the limit switch 340 may monitor movement of the actuation device 302, the linkage mechanism 304, or the connector 306.

Referring again to FIGS. 21-24, the interlock assembly 308 of the latching arrangement 300 operates similarly to the interlock assembly 152 of the front pin latching arrangement 150. The bolt 312 extending through the structure 318 provides a pivot about which the bracket 336 rotates. The movement of the C-shaped portion 337 is coordinated with the movement of plate 315 as the actuation device 302 moves downward. Specifically, rotation of the bar 334 about the bolt 312 causes the C-shaped portion 337 to hook the upper edge 348 of the plate 315 as the plate 315 moves downward. Further, in this embodiment, the bar 334 comprises a flat bar or plate, although other embodiments may utilize a rod having a curved, square, or any geometrical cross section. The cross-sectional size and dimension of the bar may be adjusted based on the load requirements. For example, a larger cross-sectional area provides greater support.

Operation of the latching arrangement 300 will now be described. FIG. 22 shows the latching system 301 in the unlatched position. The actuation device 302, in this example, extends upwards from the surface 54 of the container chassis 50. The C-shaped portion of the bracket 336 rests against the plate 315. In FIG. 24, the latching system 301 is shown in a partial latched position. The connector 306 enters the hole 53 a (see FIG. 17B) of the corner casting 52 a while a bottom surface 56 of the corner casting 52 a depresses the actuation device 302. This depression rotates the lever link 310 of the linkage mechanism 304 about the pivot 314, which causes the connector 306 to rotate. Referring to the latched position shown in FIG. 25, the connector 306 is fully rotated within the corner casting 52 a and the actuation device 302 is fully depressed. The bracket 336 of the interlock assembly 308 captures the edge 348 of the plate 315 of the linkage mechanism 304 to prevent the plate 315 from upward movement.

Front Pin Latching Arrangement 350

Referring to FIG. 26, an alternative embodiment of the front pin latching arrangement 350 for automatic securement of a container 52 to a container chassis 50 is shown. Similar to the previously described embodiment 150, the front pin latching arrangement 350 includes a first front pin latching system 351 a and a second front pin latching system 351 b disposed proximate to two front corners of a container chassis 50. Each front pin latching system 351 a, 351 b, in this example, includes a shelf 354 a, 354 b and a pin 360 (shown in FIG. 32) that move between first, unlatched positions (shown in FIG. 29) and second, latched positions (shown in FIG. 32). When a container 52 is loaded onto the container chassis 50 as shown in FIG. 1, the shelf 354 receives a corner casting 52 b of the container 52 and moves downwardly such that the pin 360 extends outwardly into a corner casting opening 53 b (see FIG. 8) of the corner casting 52 b to secure the container 52 to the container chassis 50.

Placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50 moves the shelf 354, causing the linkage mechanism 362 to move the pin 360 such that the pin 360 automatically secures the container 52 to the container chassis 50. The pin 360 restricts movement between the corner casting 52 b of the container 52 and the container chassis 50 such that each front pin latching system 351 automatically secures the container 52 to the container chassis 50. In this example, the front pin latching arrangement 350 also includes an interlock assembly 352 operably coupled to the first and second front pin latching systems 351 a, 351 b. The interlock assembly 352 is configured to provide a fail-safe operation to such that the first and second front pin latching systems 351 a, 351 b maintain securement of the container 52 to the container chassis 50.

The front pin latching arrangement 350 operates similarly to the front pin latching arrangement 150 described above and utilizes alternative parts to accomplish the goals noted above. Such variation allows for different ways of mounting into the container chassis 50, if desired.

Referring to FIG. 28, the front pin latching arrangement 350 is shown in an exploded view. Each of the first and second front pin latching systems 351 a, 351 b includes the shelf 354 a, 354 b, the pin 360 a, 360 b, and the linkage mechanism 362 a, 362 b. As shown in the example of FIG. 30, the linkage mechanism 362 a, 362 b includes a link 366 a, 366 b, a pin housing 368 a, 368 b, a structure 370 a, 370 b, a spring 372 a, 372 b, an interior frame 374 a, 374 b, and an exterior frame 376 a, 376 b. The interlock assembly 352, in this example embodiment, includes a bar 382, brackets 384 a, 384 b having a C-shaped portion 373 a, 373 b extending therefrom, and a bolt 386 a, 386 b. The shelf 354 a, 354 b includes an upper edge 356 a, 356 b that engages with the bracket 384 a, 384 b as described in greater detail below.

As seen in FIG. 29, the shelf 354, the interior frame 374, and the exterior frame 376 allow for a secure interfitting of the components and may be installed directly onto a container chassis without the need for an insert, if desired. More specifically, the shelf 354 includes a planar portion 355 that extends through an opening 377 of the exterior frame 376. The interior frame 374 includes a planar portion 375 that is disposed atop the planar portion 355 of the shelf 354. Each of the planar portions 375, 355 include respective tabs 378, 357 extending perpendicular therefrom. A bolt 379 or other fastener extends through the tabs 378, 357 to secure the frames 374, 376 together.

Referring to FIG. 30, downward movement of the shelf 354 causes downward movement of the interior frame 374, which causes the pin 360 to move horizontally through the pin housing 368. The shelf 354 moves downward along the exterior frame 376. The spring 372 biases the planar portion 375 of the interior frame 374, and the planar portion 355 of the shelf 354 connected thereto, against downward movement. FIG. 31 illustrates the shelf 354 in a further partial latched position, and FIG. 32 shows the shelf 354 in the lowermost, latched position.

As shown in FIG. 33, the structure 370 includes a notch 371 through which the bracket 384 of the interlock assembly 352 extends. The bolt 386 extending through the structure 370 provides a pivot about which the bracket 384 rotates. As the shelf 354 moves downward, the bracket 384, and the bar 382 attached thereto, rotates such that the C-shaped portion 373 hooks the upper edge 356 of the shelf 354. In the example embodiment, the bar 382 is a planar bar having a rectangular cross section. The cross-sectional size and dimension of the bar may be adjusted based on the load requirements. For example, a larger cross-sectional area provides greater support.

Operation of the front pin arrangement 350 will now be described. In reference to FIG. 29, the shelf 354 of each front pin latching system 351 rests in the unlatched position prior to placement of a container 52 on the container chassis 50. The pin 360 remains disposed within the pin housing 368. As the corner casting 52 b of the container 52 is placed on the shelf 154, the shelf 354 moves downwardly into the latched position. Such movement causes the link 366 to force the pin 360 outwardly from the shelf 354, as seen in FIGS. 30 and 31. Once the shelf 354 reaches the lowermost position shown in FIG. 32, the pin 360 fully extends from the shelf 354 into the opening 53 b of the corner casting 52 b.

Downward movement of the shelves 354 a, 354 b of the respective front pin latching systems 351 a, 351 b also causes the interlock assembly 352 to move between the first and second positions. As the shelves 354 a, 354 b of the front pin latching systems 351 a, 351 b move downwardly upon placement of the container 52 on the container chassis 50, the respective brackets 384 a, 384 b rotate about the respective bolts 386 a, 386 b. The C-shaped portions 372 a, 372 b of the respective brackets 384 a, 384 b receive the respective upper edges 356 a, 356 b of the respective shelves 354 a, 354 b as such shelves 354 a, 354 b move downward such that the shelves 354 a, 354 b are prevented from moving upwards.

When the container 52 is removed from the container chassis 50, the springs 372 a, 372 b of the respective front pin latching systems 351 a, 351 b bias the respective shelves 354 a, 354 b upwards, which causes the respective link 366 a, 366 b to move the respective pin 360 a, 360 b to horizontally into the respective pin housing 368 a, 368 b. Upward movement of the respective shelves 354 a, 354 b also causes the respective brackets 384 a, 384 b to rotate about the respective bolts 386 a, 386 b such that the respective C-shaped portions 372 a, 372 b of the respective brackets 384 a, 384 b release the respective upper edges 356 a, 356 b of the respective shelves 354 a, 354 b, thereby enabling the respective spring 372 a, 372 b to bias the respective upper edge 356 a, 356 b of the respective shelves 354 a, 354 b upwards.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The disclosure has been presented in an illustrative manner in order to enable a person of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the disclosure, and the terminology used is intended to be in the nature of description rather than of limitation. It is understood that the disclosure may be practiced in ways other than as specifically disclosed, and that all modifications, equivalents, and variations of the present disclosure, which are possible in light of the above teachings and ascertainable to a person of ordinary skill in the art, are specifically included within the scope of the impending claims. All patents, patent publications, and other references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference. 

We claim:
 1. A latching system for automatic securement of a container to a container chassis comprising: an actuation device disposed on an upper surface of the container chassis; a linkage mechanism disposed below the upper surface; and a connector positioned on a further surface elevated above the upper surface; wherein placement of the container on the container chassis actuates the actuation device causing the linkage mechanism to move the connector and automatically secure the container to the container chassis.
 2. The latching system of claim 1, wherein the first surface of the container chassis receives a corner casting of the container, and wherein the corner casting has a bottom surface with an opening such that the connector enters the opening before the actuation device is actuated.
 3. The latching system of claim 1, wherein the connector moves between an unlatched position and a latched position.
 4. The latching system of claim 3, wherein the connector prevents movement of the container apart from the container chassis when the connector is in the latched position.
 5. The latching system of claim 4, wherein the actuation device comprises a plunger that extends from and through the upper surface of the container chassis when the connector is in the unlatched position, and wherein the plunger is approximately level with the upper surface of the container chassis when the connector is in the latched position.
 6. The latching system of claim 4, wherein the connector rotates upon actuation of the plunger.
 7. The latching system of claim 5, wherein the connector comprises a twist lock, and wherein the twist lock rotates approximately 90° upon actuation of the actuation device.
 8. The latching system of claim 5, wherein the linkage mechanism translates vertical movement of the plunger to rotational movement of the connector when the plunger is actuated by placement of the container on the container chassis.
 9. The latching system of claim 8, wherein the connector has a head disposed above the further surface and a shaft that extends through the upper surface and the further surface.
 10. The latching system of claim 9, wherein the linkage mechanism comprises a spring biased against movement of the plunger.
 11. The latching system of claim 10, wherein the linkage mechanism further comprises: a lever link coupled to the plunger and a pivot, wherein the pivot is provided by a structure; an arm coupled to the shaft; and a connector link having a first end that is coupled to the lever link and a second end that is coupled to the arm.
 12. The latching system of claim 11, wherein the spring is disposed between an outer wall of the container chassis and the lever link.
 13. The latching system of claim 11, wherein the structure is secured to the upper surface of the container chassis.
 14. The latching system of claim 10, wherein the linkage mechanism further comprises: a lever link coupled to the actuation device and adapted to rotate about the pivot point provided by a structure; a bracket that receives the connector; and a connector link attached to the lever link and to the bracket.
 15. The latching system of claim 14, wherein the spring is disposed between an extension of the structure and an extension of the lever link.
 16. The latching system of claim 14, wherein the structure is secured to a bottom of the container chassis.
 17. The latching system of claim 1, further comprising a limit switch that monitors movement of one of the actuation device, the linkage mechanism, and the connector.
 18. A latching arrangement for automatic securement of a container to a container chassis comprising: first and second latching systems disposed proximate to two corners at a front or rear of the container chassis, wherein first and second latching systems automatically secure the container to the container chassis; and an interlock assembly operably coupled to the first and second latching systems; wherein the interlock assembly is configured to provide a fail-safe operation such that the first and second latching systems maintain securement of the container to the container chassis.
 19. The latching arrangement of claim 18, wherein the interlock assembly comprises: an actuation device on an upper surface of the container chassis; an interlock mechanism disposed below the upper surface; and first and second rods that extend from the interlock mechanism to the respective first and second latching systems; wherein placement of the container on the container chassis actuates the actuation device causing the interlock mechanism to move each of the first and second rods towards the respective first and second latching systems.
 20. The latching arrangement of claim 19, wherein the interlock mechanism translates vertical movement of the actuation device into horizontal movement of the first and second rods when the actuation device is actuated by placement of the container on the container chassis.
 21. The latching arrangement of claim 20, wherein the interlock mechanism comprises a spring that biased against movement of the actuation device.
 22. The latching arrangement of claim 21, wherein the spring is disposed between a bottom surface of the container chassis and the actuation device.
 23. The latching arrangement of claim 21, wherein the first and second rods rest in a first position when the actuation device is not actuated, and wherein the first and second rods rest in a second position when the actuation device is actuated.
 24. The latching arrangement of claim 21, wherein the interlock mechanism further comprises first and second arms coupled to the container chassis at respective first and second pivots below the first surface, and wherein the first and second arms are coupled to the respective first and second rods.
 25. The latching arrangement of claim 24, wherein the actuation device further comprises a plate having first and second protrusions, wherein the first and second protrusions are in communication with the respective first and second arms.
 26. The latching arrangement of claim 25, wherein the first and second arms include respective first and second notches along inner surfaces of the respective first and second arms, wherein the first and second notches receive the respective first and second protrusions of the actuation device such that movement of the actuation device causes rotation of the first and second arms about the respective first and second pivots.
 27. The latching arrangement of claim 18, wherein each first and second latching system comprises: another actuation device on the upper surface of the container chassis; a linkage mechanism disposed below the upper surface; and a connector positioned on a further surface elevated above the upper surface of the container chassis; wherein placement of the container on the container chassis actuates the other actuation device causing the linkage mechanism to move the connector and automatically secure the container to the container chassis.
 28. The latching arrangement of claim 27, wherein the actuation device is spaced apart from each of the other actuation devices of the respective first and second latching systems.
 29. The latching arrangement of claim 27, wherein a gap is maintained between the first and second rods and the respective first and second linkage mechanisms of the respective first and second latching systems during normal use.
 30. The latching arrangement of claim 29, wherein the first and second rods maintain the respective first and second connectors of the respective first and second latching systems in the second position when the gap is eliminated.
 31. The latching arrangement of claim 27, wherein each of the first and second linkage mechanisms include respective first and second edges, and wherein the interlock assembly comprises: a bar that extends between the first and second latching systems; and a first bracket and a second bracket disposed proximate to the respective first and second latching systems, wherein the first and second brackets are coupled to the bar; wherein the first and second brackets have respective first and second C-shaped portions adjacent the respective first and second latching systems; and wherein the first and second C-shaped portions receive the respective first and second edges of the first and second latching systems during placement of the container on the container chassis.
 32. The latching arrangement of claim 31, wherein the bar comprises a flat plate.
 33. A method for automatic securement of a container to a container chassis comprising: positioning a connector to extend through a surface of the container chassis, wherein the connector moves between a first position and a second position; positioning an actuation device to extend from the surface, wherein the actuation device is in communication with the connector; placing a corner casting of the container on top of the surface of the container chassis such that placement of the container on the container chassis actuates the actuation device, wherein the corner casting has an opening to receive the connector; causing the connector to move between the first and second positions in response to actuation of the actuation device such that the container is automatically secured to the container chassis when the container is placed on the container chassis.
 34. The method of claim 33, wherein the connector enters the corner casting before the actuation device is actuated.
 35. The method of claim 33, further comprising translating the vertical movement of the actuation device to rotational movement of the connector.
 36. The method of claim 35, wherein translating the vertical movement comprises providing a linkage mechanism disposed below the surface, wherein the linkage mechanism is coupled to the actuation device and the connector.
 37. The method of claim 33, wherein the method further comprises lifting the container off of the container chassis.
 38. The method of claim 33, wherein the connector comprises a twist lock.
 39. The method of claim 38, wherein causing the connector to move comprises causing the twist lock to rotate approximately 90° through actuation of the actuation device. 